Exit Slip

The chapter that was presented today allowed us to discuss in small groups the following aspects and their pros and cons:
Accreditation- pros: students can decide what to learn; cons: the students might think they know what they want to do, but then, later on they might change their mind.
Epistemic Frames- pros: very hands on; cons: its not a regular demand.
Focus on topics in school that teachers have trouble teaching- pros: when children struggle grasping things that are not tangible, then a simulation could be beneficial; cons:may not be able to transfer...but does not truly have the experience because it is only simulation.
Video games- pros: they can be engaging and be appropriate according to their interests; cons: distracting and may have inappropriate contexts, and it takes up too much time.
Course management systems- pros: it can be a great tool for organization and allows for online discussions to collaborate; cons: when teachers overuse it and it creates some mis-communications at times.
Technology as an equalizer: pros: using it as an additional resource within the classroom could be beneficial cons: it can be difficult to keep it engaging.
Some of these pros and cons were mentioned in the chapter, but some additional ideas were given, which gave me more insight on each topic.
A lot of the contemporary issues discussed today were very interesting. The issue of using calculators in our classrooms is an issue I go back and forth on. In my opinion, as an educator, you need to make an equal balance. Children should learn how to use a calculator, but they need to know how to do mathematical equations by hand. Also, Liz's issue about teachers using social networking websites inappropriately. I feel very strongly about not placing inappropriate photos on your profile because it is not professional. We are teachers as well as people that children look up to, so we should not be promoting inappropriate behaviors.